dwindle

Everyday

1. To become smaller, fewer or weaker little by little until there is very little left. tree →
2. dwindling (adjective): getting smaller. tree →

In the lessons

In geography and science, dwindling numbers of animals, water or forests show a problem; in maths stories, supplies dwindle as they are used; in stories, hope or light dwindles; phrases: «dwindling numbers», «dwindle away», «dwindling supplies».

Examples

• Our supply of biscuits dwindled during the camping trip. tree →
• The number of tigers in the wild has dwindled. tree →
• The crowd dwindled as it got dark. tree →
• Their hope dwindled as the hours passed. tree →
• Our savings dwindled after the holiday. tree →
• The river dwindled to a tiny stream in summer. tree →

Note

Regular verb. Similar: shrink, decrease, fade. Opposite: grow, increase. In maths: if 20 sweets dwindle by 3 each day, after 5 days 5 are left.

In Jewish tradition

To shrink and become weak, said of Israel's enemies who will fade away before them. In the primary lessons: In geography and science, dwindling numbers of animals, water or forests show a problem; in maths stories, supplies dwindle as they are used; in stories, hope or light dwindles; phrases: «dwindling numbers», «dwindle away», «dwindling supplies».

Examples

• And thine enemies shall dwindle away before thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places. (Torah DEU.33.29, JPS 1917) tree →
• Through the greatness of Thy power shall Thine enemies dwindle away before Thee. (Writings PSA.66.3, JPS 1917) tree →
• Again, they are minished and dwindle away through oppression of evil and sorrow. (Writings PSA.107.39, JPS 1917) tree →
• The haters of the LORD should dwindle away before Him; and their punishment should endure for ever. (Writings PSA.81.16, JPS 1917) tree →

Note

Regular verb. Similar: shrink, decrease, fade. Opposite: grow, increase. In maths: if 20 sweets dwindle by 3 each day, after 5 days 5 are left.